ONE-THIRD of severe asthma sufferers have been put on a life
support machine as the result of an attack.
Research found 28% of sufferers have experienced a potentially
fatal attack that led to them being put on the life-saving machines.
Of those who suffer from the disease, over half live in fear of
the next asthma attack, the research conducted by Novartis
Pharmaceuticals found.
The figures, collated from 333 sufferers, found that two-fifths
of people with severe asthma have to visit accident and emergency
units at least once a year.
Dr Dinesh Saralaya, consultant respiratory physician at Bradford
Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: "People with severe
asthma, whose asthma is not under control or who are experiencing
regular attacks, should discuss how to best manage the condition
with their doctor.
"This is a key goal, since the majority of sufferers feel they
can get on with life if their symptoms are controlled adequately."